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Celebrate National Trails Day June 3 at Explore MOre with MDC and Shaw Nature Reserve
GRAY SUMMIT, Mo.—The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and Shaw Nature Reserve (SNR) invite you to learn more about the wonders of nature and outdoor adventure on National Trails Day!
National Trails Day is June 3rd this year. MDC and SNR are celebrating by hosting Explore MOre, a special outdoor exploration event happening Saturday, June 3 from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. at Shaw Nature Reserve in Gray Summit. Explore MOre is open to visitors of all ages. No reservations are required.
Join knowledgeable MDC and SNR staff to learn about Missouri native habitats, local wildlife, gardening, and conservation. Explore MOre will feature hands-on nature and outdoor skills exploration stations. Participants can visit educational tables on backpacking and hiking, tree identification, how to start a fire, or mammal fur pelts. Visitors can try their hand at using the atlatl, a prehistoric hunting tool, and fishing in Cypress Lake.
Visitors will each get an Explore MOre passport at the event. As they collect stamps at the exploration stations and hikes, the passports can be redeemed at the welcome tent for prizes, like emergency whistles, compasses, fire starting sticks, and water bottles (while supplies last).
SNR, a division of the Missouri Botanical Garden, is home to 2,400 acres of restored Ozark habitat and 17-miles of hiking trails. The wide variety of natural environments all in one place will enable visitors to make new discoveries about the outdoor world.
In celebration of National Trails Day, admission is free for Explore MOre; the Nature Reserve’s standard $5 general admission will be waived. Visitors will just need to check in at the Visitor Center for directions.
This event may be modified or cancelled due to inclement weather, please visit https://short.mdc.mo.gov/4Q2 for information.
SNR is located at 307 Pinetum Loop Road, on the south side of I-44 at exit #253 in Gray Summit. It’s less than 10 miles past the Six Flags exit and only a 40-minute drive from the Metro St. Louis area.
Sign up for email or text alerts to stay informed of MDC’s latest programs and events by going to https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZoP.